Slippery Elm

Botanical names: Ulmus rubra, Ulmus fulva

Parts used and where grown

The slippery elm tree is native to North America, where it still grows primarily. The inner bark of the tree is the main part used for medicinal preparations.

Slippery elm has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Science Ratings

Health Concerns

Common cold/sore throat

Cough

Crohn’s disease

Gastritis

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Heartburn (symptom relief)

Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars

Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star

For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

Native Americans found innumerable medicinal and other uses for this tree. Canoes, baskets, and other household goods were made from the tree and its bark. Slippery elm was also used internally for conditions such as sore throats and diarrhoea.¹ As a poultice, it was considered a remedy for many inflammatory skin conditions.

Active constituents

The mucilage of slippery elm, found in the inner bark, gives it the soothing effect for which it is known.² In people with heartburn, the mucilage appears to act as a barrier against the damaging effects of acid on the oesophagus. It may also have an anti-inflammatory effect locally in the stomach and intestines. This soothing effect may also extend to the throat. Clinical research, verifying these effects in humans has not been conducted.

How much is usually taken?

The dried inner bark in capsules or tablets, 800–1,000 mg three to four time per day, may be used. A tea can also be made by boiling 1/2–2 grams of the bark in 200 ml of water for ten to fifteen minutes, then cooled before drinking. Three to four cups a day can be used.³ Tincture, 5 ml three times per day, can be taken as well. Slippery elm is also an ingredient of some sore throat and cough lozenges.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Slippery elm is quite safe. There are no known reasons to avoid its use during pregnancy or breast feeding. However, because it is so mucilaginous, it may interfere with the absorption of medicine taken at the same time.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with slippery elm.

References
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1. Duke JA. CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1985, 495–6.

2. Wren RC, Williamson EM, Evans FJ. Potter’s New Cyclopedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations. Essex, UK: CW Daniel Company, 1988, 252.

3. Foster S. Herbs for Your Health. Loveland, CO: Interweave Press, 1996, 88–9.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.